The Chicago Bulls appeared to be cruising to victory against the Atlanta Hawks with a commanding 21-point lead late in the third quarter, boasting a staggering 99.2% win probability according to ESPN's metrics. However, the Hawks defied expectations with a remarkable comeback, ultimately winning the game 141-133. This turnaround was fueled by an explosive fourth quarter where the Hawks scored an unprecedented 50 points while committing only one turnover, marking a historic achievement in the NBA's play-by-play era.
The critical moment of the game occurred when Jevon Carter's basket put the Bulls ahead 126-110 with just over five minutes left. The Bulls, seemingly in control, failed to score for nearly four minutes, allowing the Hawks to unleash a 20-point run, flipping the scoreboard and taking a four-point lead. Trae Young emerged as a key player, contributing 27 points and 13 assists, with 16 points coming in the final quarter alone.
Despite the fourth-quarter heroics, the Hawks' scoring spree wasn't even the highest in franchise history, as they once tallied 54 points in a quarter against the San Diego Clippers back in 1970. Nevertheless, this comeback victory adds to the Hawks' impressive season, currently placing them in contention for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. At 16-15, they are just behind the Miami Heat and have demonstrated resilience with significant wins against teams like the Boston Celtics and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
